The Flying Eagles, Nigeria’s U20 national football team, have taken a significant step toward the 2025 U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Egypt by calling up 35 players to a training camp in Abuja. Head coach Aliyu Zubairu announced the squad as part of the team’s preparations for the tournament, set to commence on April 27 in Cairo.
The invited roster features a blend of local talents and overseas-based players, showcasing Nigeria’s depth in youth football. The initial 35-man list will undergo a rigorous selection process, with only 21 players making the final cut at least 10 days before the competition begins.
Among the standout names are goalkeepers Rufai Abubakar of Mavlon FC, Soliu Ajia from Serbia’s FK Novi Pazar, and Ebenezer Harcourt of Sporting Lagos. The defensive line includes promising stars like Emmanuel Chukwu of Germany’s TSG Hoffenheim and Kenneth Igbokwe of Enugu Rangers. In midfield, players such as Ibrahim Alam from Spain’s Real Valladolid and Israel Ayuma of Croatia’s NK Istra are expected to bring flair and creativity. Leading the attack are forwards like Umar Abubakar of Belgium’s KAA Gent and Benjamin Precious, also from TSG Hoffenheim.
Coach Zubairu expressed optimism about the team’s prospects, emphasizing his belief that the final squad will embody Nigeria’s footballing pride and talent. “We are building a team that will compete strongly and make the country proud in Egypt,” he said.The Flying Eagles are aiming for a standout performance at the 2025 U20 AFCON, where they will face Africa’s best young talents. With a mix of skill, determination, and international experience, Nigeria hopes to leave a mark on the continental stage.
CALLED UP PLAYERS
GOALKEEPERS: Rufai Abubakar (Mavlon FC), Soliu Ajia (FK Novi Pazar, Serbia), Ebenezer Harcourt (Sporting Lagos).
DEFENDERS: Emmanuel Chukwu (TSG Hoffenheim Germany), Kenneth Igbokwe (Enugu Rangers), Daniel Bamaiyi (Bayelsa United), Adewale Quadin (Nath Boys), Afamu Maigari (El Kanemi Warriors), Odinaka Emmanuel (Sporting Lagos), Chigozie Ihejifor (Katsina United), Haruna Aliyu (Wikki Tourists).
MIDFIELDERS: Michael Tunde (Simoiben), Auwal Ibrahim (Akwa United), Akin Oluwashile (Water FC), Israel Ayuma (NK Istra, Croatia), Cletus Simon (Mavlon FC), Caleb Ochedikwu (NK Ujanik, Montenegro), Ibrahim Alam (Real Valladolid, Spain), Sulaiman Alabi ‘Jojo’ (El Kanemi Warriors), Shafiu Duguri (Wikki Tourists), Nasiru Salihu (El Kanemi Warriors), Sabiu Mohammed (Niger Tornadoes).
FORWARDS: Adeleke Abdulmuiz (Adoration FC), Armiyu Yushua (Katsina United), Mustapha Umar (Kano Pillars), Anthony Ezekiel (Inspire FC), Otu Joseph (Moralo FC), Oliseh Divine (Fosta Academy), Clinton Jephta (Enyimba), Bidemi Amole (Real Sapphire), Umar Abubakar (KAA Gent, Belgium), Trahir Maigana (Wireless FC), Rickson Mendos (Niger Tornadoes), Mathew Kingsley (Kings FC), Benjamin Precious (TSG Hoffenheim, Germany).